Severe gusts reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, though officials state that power was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the winds, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the extreme weather has forced them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
